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What is a Fan Coil Unit - FCU Aircon?

March 7, 2020

With the long list of different air conditioner types for every home and office, it can seem confusing for the average person to choose the right unit. From standard window and cassette types to split inverter aircon units, the slate of available choices — and possibilities — that you can purchase to cool your space seem endless.

But apart from these common aircon types that we are all familiar with comes another popular choice that may seem elusive yet commonplace — the aircon fan coil unit (FCU). This is a standalone aircon system that is responsible for circulating the present air in a small space, but is also sometimes a part of a complete HVAC system. The FCU is also used in a variety of configurations, the usual ones being arranged and used in floor-mounted and ceiling configuration types.

How Does The FCU Work?

The FCU functions as a fan that collects and circulates air in a space and then into the unit by blowing it over with a cooling or heating coil. This process results in air coming out of the unit that can be cooler or hotter than ever before.

Don’t be fooled by this seemingly complex procedure though — the FCU is a simple machine that simply consists of either a cooling or a heating coil and a fan. Compared to the air handling unit (AHU), the fan coil unit is not as complex and extensive. It’s a singular aircon system that can stand and operate on its own to circulate air without the existence of ductwork.

Additionally, most fan coil units function by controlling the temperature of a space through the use of circulated cold or hot water. Oftentimes, this water is taken from a central plant that is complete with the necessary equipment such as a cooling tower and boilers. These two then get rid of the heat and generate hot water, respectively.

Where are Fan Coil Units Used?

Fan coil units are prevalent in different buildings and establishments with small private spaces. Some of these buildings usually include small to medium offices and even private casino rooms. These units are usually controlled by local thermostats or sometimes, the building’s management system itself. In some high-rise buildings, fan coil units are usually positioned and arranged vertically. This arrangement results in the units being located one above the other in different floors and all connected by the same piping loop.

Apart from these establishments, shopping centres with multiple small spaces also prefer using fan coil units for their cooling. Since FCUs are much cheaper to purchase and install than air handling units, these spaces normally gravitate to it for better value for money and to complement their areas.

The Advantages and Benefits of Fan Coil Units

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Cheaper to procure and install than other central aircon systems - Because they commonly power small to medium-sized spaces, fan coil units are relatively cheaper compared to an air handling unit system and a larger central aircon system. Additionally, they are also easier to install because of their size, resulting in more affordable installation costs than the other systems.

Individual room-level control for temperatures - Another advantage of having a fan coil unit system is that you can be more flexible with the temperature settings by having a room-level customization for your space.

Energy-efficient - With proper maintenance and operating, the fan coil unit system can produce a good deal of energy efficiency that can save power and energy consumption.

Choosing the Right Aircon For You

These are only some of the benefits and advantages that you can expect from an air conditioning fan coil unit. If you’re planning on getting one, you must first consider your space’s area size followed by your cooling preferences. Whether you need help deciding on what unit will work best for you and your space, or you just need a reliable air conditioner maintenance service provider to save you from your air conditioning problems, then don’t hesitate to call us at Oasis Aircon Singapore! We offer a wide range of premium services at affordable rates. Drop us a call and our team of professional aircon experts will be happy to help with any of your air conditioning needs!